Commission Considers Utility Rate Changes
The Pierre City Commission is considering a proposal to increase the city’s electric, wastewater, and water rates.
The proposal, brought forward by city staff at the Nov. 19 commission meeting, calls for a 3% increase to each of the three utility rates. According to staff, the increase is needed to cover both capital and operational costs.
“The price of doing business doesn’t often decrease, and that’s the case here,” said Brad Palmer, City Utilities Director. “We have some major capital expenses in each of our utilities, as well as ongoing operational expenses.”
Palmer added that electrical rates haven’t changed since 2019, wastewater since 2021, and water since 2022.
“We try to limit increases; we can only hold off for so many years before an increase becomes needed.”
The proposal will come back to the commission at their Nov. 26 meeting for consideration and final action. If approved, the rate increase will go into effect Jan. 1.
For full proposed ordinance language, visit cityofpierre.org.